The teenager, named locally as Luke Chapman, was a pupil at Haybridge High in Hagley, Worcestershire, and was playing in a match at Baxter College in Kidderminster when he collapsed yesterday afternoon.

Ambulances were called to reports of a boy who had stopped breathing at around 4.30pm and he was airlifted to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Ambulance crews took over resuscitation attempts and advanced life support was carried out at the scene.

"The boy was transferred to Birmingham Children's Hospital by air ambulance for further emergency treatment.

"Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance crews and hospital staff, nothing could be done to save the boy and he passed away shortly after arriving at hospital."

Community Police Officers and staff talk to visitors at the gates to the school

Tony Homer, chair of governors at the school, said in a statement: "We are all terribly shocked and upset by what has happened.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this very sad time. The school will offer all the support we possibly can to those affected."

In at statement on the school's website this morning, headteacher Caroline Hoddinott said: "As you know, as a school we have experienced a tragic loss.

"Our thoughts are with family and friends. Thank you for all your support and prayers at this time.

Friends of the schoolboy tweeted messages of support this morning.

One tweeted: "RIP Luke Chapman, never forget the good memories x."

Another said: "Even though I didnt know you, a lot of my friends did. The whole of Hagley is silent. Rest in peace Luke Chapman."